The Country Food Similarity Index is a statistically-based attempt to quantify how similar the food in one country is relative to another. By comparing the weight of raw food ingredients used in each country, a score is assigned that reflects the degree of similarity between the respective countries. The methodology is exactly the same for each country studied.
The Most Similar Cuisines to North Macedonian Food
North Macedonian food has many similarities with other countries in Eastern Europe. Four of the five nations with the most similar food to North Macedonia are predominately Orthodox Christian. Common historical influences include the Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Byzantine empires, which have left their mark on their respective cuisines.
- Bosnia and North Macedonia both have a mix of Christians and Muslims. As a result, pork is not as commonly eaten in these countries as many other European nations. Burek, a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, is a beloved dish in both North Macedonia and Bosnia.
- Romania offers a unique blend of Balkan and Ottoman culinary influences, similar to North Macedonia. Just like Romania’s “mici,” North Macedonia’s “kebapi” are small, grilled sausages made from ground meat. Stuffed onions and many tomatoes are found in both cuisines. Both nations have a tradition of making flatbreads as well.
- Georgia shares some similarities with North Macedonia due to historical influences from the Ottoman Empire. Both cuisines emphasize fresh, local ingredients and feature dishes. Common elements include the use of nuts, cheese, and a variety of vegetables in their traditional recipes. Additionally, both cuisines are known for their hearty stews.
- Armenia is another mountainous landlocked country. Armenian and North Macedonian cuisines are alike as well. Both countries commonly use eggplants, peppers, tomatoes, and parsley in their traditional dishes. Pickled vegetables, such as cucumbers, peppers, and cabbage, are found in both nations as well.
- Bulgaria is on North Macedonia’s eastern border. The two countries have many cultural similarities. Pepper-based spreads are common in these nations. Both cuisines feature Sarma, cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices, often cooked in a savory tomato sauce.
Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to North Macedonia
The Least Similar Cuisines to North Macedonian Food
The five countries with the least similar food to North Macedonia are located in much warmer climates. This affects what type of crops are grown in these countries. Moreover, these countries are far less developed than North Macedonia. Four of the five are located in Africa.
- Chad is a landlocked country in the middle of Africa. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains there. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s harsh climate. Peanuts and sesame seeds are also popular.
- Micronesia is a group of small islands in the Pacific Ocean. The country’s isolation has limited its exposure to foreign influences. Coconuts are a huge part of their cuisine. In addition, rice and cassava are the two most commonly eaten starches in Micronesia.
- Central African Republic was once a colony of France before becoming independent. Cassava and yam are two of the most commonly eaten staple ingredients in the country. Furthermore, taro and bananas make up a much greater share of the diet in Central African Republic than in North Macedonia.
- South Sudan is a located to the east of Central African Republic. Cassava accounts for the largest part of the country’s diet, however South Sudanese eat their share of sorghum as well. Potatoes and chili peppers are not nearly as widespread in South Sudan.
- Democratic Republic of Congo is a large country located in the middle of Africa that is mostly tropical rainforest. Cassava is the dominant staple crop in the country, unlike in North Macedonia, where wheat and potatoes are more prevalent.
Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to North Macedonia
Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories
North Macedonia’s Most Common Food Ingredients
Protein: Chicken, Pork
Fruit: Grape, Watermelon
Vegetable: Chili Pepper, Tomato
Starch: Wheat, Potato
Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.